Associate Network Engineer Review

by BT

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am currently operational support, currently focusing on Automation for the network operations team. This evolves creating software in an agile fashion to automate tasks which are deemed to be too manual. This is done in a mixture of languages including python, ruby and JavaScript often with a front end design.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt many new skills throughout this apprenticeship. Firstly, attending the university of Suffolk to get my degree has taught me a large amount about networking which I did not know coming into this job. Furthermore, I have learnt a large amount about software engineering from a mixture of internal teams and knowledge sharing but also external qualifications with vendors with Cisco or AWS

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I very much enjoy my job. I get the ability to learn new things while studying a degree which I would otherwise have to pay for. You are treated like any other employee compared to an apprentice and given tasks which allow you to learn but also ask questions about the topic and learn from all opportunities.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The university side is managed by them, and we are treated like any other students. The communication between us and the Uni usually comes directly from them. Now and again though contract managers internally. You receive you off the job training time (study day) at regular intervals and uni work is understood to be important and extra focus is given if required

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive a large amount of support from my employer, there are many years of apprentices at BT therefore everyone understands the expectations required of an apprentice but also knows what it was like to be one. There are many years of people you can ask for help if required.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

6/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

10/10

9a. Would you recommend BT to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a very good place to work, they offer good benefits and support. It is why people stay in their jobs for many years.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BT?

If it is possible to get some work experience with us, then take that opportunity to see if an apprenticeship is right for you.